At 18, he’s on his sixth album, has played at Carnegie Hall, White House

The youngest musician ever nominated for a Grammy Award in the jazz category is performing at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center Thursday, May 26, starting at 7:30 p.m.

At age 18, Joey Alexander, profiled by 60 Minutes and the New York Times, has completed several albums including original songs.

“There has never been anyone…who could play like that at his age,” said Wynton Marsalis, trumpeter and Jazz at Lincoln Center leader.
Ken Norris, long-time host of Maui radio program “Jazz Metropolis,” said Alexander’s performance on the Valley Isle is a great opportunity for jazz lovers. “I think it’s a phenomenal thing,” he said.

Alexander’s latest album “Origin” has just been released this month, and reviews have been positive.

Alexander’s music includes original work and personalized interpretations of classic songs.

He was born in Bali, Indonesia and taught himself to play jazz piano by listening to his father’s recording collection.

He’s been performing professionally since 2013 when he was invited by Marsalis to perform at a Lincoln Center Gala.

He has received three Grammy nominations – one for Best Jazz Instrumental and two for Best Improvised Jazz Solo.

He’s performed with Wayne Shorter and Esperanza Spalding at the Obama White House, for President Bill Clinton at the Arthur Ashe Learning Center Gala, at the Grand Old Opry, the Apollo Theatre, and at Carnegie Hall.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase in the Yokouchi Pavilion.

Advance ticket sales are online only. The MACC Box Office is not open for window transactions but is open on the night of show for will call pick up. Online orders utilize print-at-home ticketing to facilitate touchless transactions. Tickets may also be downloaded to electronic devices for scanning upon entry into the venue. The Box Office is available for inquiries by email or phone 808-242-7649, Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For a weekly listing of Maui music and other events, go to Maui Entertainment, Arts, Community, May 19-May 25 and click here.